The competition amongst the players will be tough, with rookie Scott Howard recording the fastest time trial (11.4 seconds). It appears Howard is talented in both short and long distance races. The 19-year-old won the Princes Park time trial in the first week of pre-season. Adam Ramanauskas was a close second in the sprint time trial posting a time of 11.5 seconds, with Joel Reynolds and draftee Darren Walsh equal third, with a time of 11.7 seconds. Matthew Lloyd is also in contention, recording a competitive time of 12.3 seconds over the 120m sprint.
The running group is part of an innovative 2003 preseason program that has been mapped out by Essendon's fitness staff. The Essendon players had the opportunity to choose from a number of training electives. The groups have been training together once a week for the past two months with specialised instructors. The running group will compete at the Rye Gift and the Ringwood Gift on Sunday, January 19th as part of the program.
Essendon supporters are welcome to cheer the Essendon players on at the Rye Gift. Details following:
Date: Saturday, January 11th
Time: 10.30am
Venue: Rowley Reserve, Melbourne Rye Road, Melway reference – Map 168 D5
